Number 59A St Fintan's Villas, a detached three-bed for sale by public auction through agents Douglas Newman Good, would therefore make an ideal family home.

It's leaf- covered facade and large gardens suggest that of a much older, mature property of perhaps post war style, yet as it is of a slightly more recent vintage . . . built in l994 . . . number 59A doesn't require that constant updating and maintenance of the typical period house.

That sense of an older era is also present in one of the nicest features . . . that large, private rear garden, now wonderfully mature.

Inside, the 1,200 sq ft interior is laid out in well planned accommodation. In good decorative order throughout, features include a newly fitted kitchen and spacious master bedroom with en suite.

Entrance is through the wood panelled and stained glass front door. To the left is a small guest cloakroom with frosted window. Of the main rooms opening off the hall, the principal one is the kitchen, almost fully square in shape, with all new presses and appliances and a window looking back to the front garden and drive. The living room and dining room are configured as one large room, with a wood and marble fireplace as a dominant feature and, at the rear garden end, tall sliding doors to the patio.

Storage is provided in a feature alcove and also in the understairs space.

The three bedrooms are just off the first floor landing. The main bedroom has an en-suite, large picture window to the front and built-in wardrobes.

Bedroom two also has built-in wardrobes and overlooks the secluded rear garden. The third bedroom is currently in use as a home office; the main bathroom includes an integrated corner press, while the frosted window looks out to the side.

To the front is a very private and gravelled drive, bounded by lofty shrubs, specimen trees and a neat border along one side, and with excellent parking space provided.

The abundantly planted rear garden includes hard landscaping, a slate water feature and . . . a joy for those with youngsters seeking to have a rich family home life . . .

a hidden tree house.

Price: AMV 725,000; public auction 7 June 2006 Agent: Douglas Newman Good (01-230 1616)